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2009 Toyota Sequoia Performance

The 2009 Toyota Sequoia may be a beast, but she can get up and hustle with a powerful V-8 under the hood. Size and power still equate to thirsty, though.

The ‘09 Sequoia offers two engines: a standard 4.7-liter V-8 keeps the price tag down, but the larger and more powerful 5.7-liter version actually gets better fuel economy and is necessary for getting the most performance out of the big SUV.

The 2009 Toyota Sequoia has great performance and the appetite that goes with it.

The optional engine in the 2009 Toyota Sequoia is a 5.7-liter V-8 engine that pumps out 381 hp and provides 401 pound-feet of torque. This very capable engine gives the Sequoia surprising acceleration numbers, as well as plenty of towing power for boat owners. Motor Trend raves about the on-road performance of the Toyota; 2009’s Sequoia “can push passengers into their seatbacks with what seems like enough energy to recline to the floor.” Car and Driver also praises the Sequoia’s “monster motor” and its “surprisingly tight 39-foot turning circle.” Edmunds says the big engine and six-speed automatic can push the sport-ute to 60 mph “in 6.7 seconds.” Speaking to the transmission, Edmunds finds that it “is always on its game with gear selection, even when towing.”

Edmunds confirms the availability of a smaller engine in the Toyota; 2009’s base engine is a “4.7-liter V8, which is rated at 276 horsepower and 314 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission is standard with this engine.”

The handling characteristics of the 2009 Toyota Sequoia earns kudos from most reviewers. ConsumerGuide takes care to point out that the “Sequoia is composed in most every routine maneuver, with the bonus of a usefully tight turning radius and outstanding brake control.” Car and Driver reports, “Although the Sequoia won’t send you in search of twisty roads, you won’t necessarily have to avoid them.” However, they also observe that “the ride isn’t quite as smooth as we expected…[and] feels downright jiggly on rough roads.” Motor Trend says the Sequoia is “poised,” but has “light and numb steering.”

All trim levels of the Sequoia feature large disc brakes and a brake-assist system that help slow the car’s 6,000-plus pounds when those red lights are fast approaching—although Automobile thinks the pedal feels like a “Nerf ball.” Four-wheel drive is an option with either powertrain in the Toyota Sequoia; 2009’s system allows drivers to “lock the center differential in both 4 Hi and 4 Lo, thereby providing greater flexibility when driving in snowy conditions,” Edmunds notes.